By Alex Briggs
A Derbyshire cricket club has raised some vital funds after hosting an evening with former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff as guest speaker.
Wingfield Cricket Club made over £1300 on a night that saw the cricketer share stories about his playing past. Two auction prizes sold for £800 apiece, as Freddie kindly donated his appearance fee to the fund-raising effort.
Club chairman and long-time friend of Flintoff, Andrew Mitchell, didn’t hold back in sharing his delight at how successful the night was.
He said: “I thought Flintoff and the comedian carried the night well and the funds raised will buy a new mower for both grounds as well as new changing room facility for the third team.”
Having three teams in the Derbyshire County League, the club are looking to further expand their current home ground with the addition of a neighbouring second pitch.
Coming at a large cost for such a small club, they rely solely on community run fundraisers and government grants.
Compared to surrounding clubs such as Alfreton and Denby CC, South Wingfield remain relatively small. Revamping the existing ground to England Cricket Board grade A standard would benefit the club.
Secretary and junior coach Dean Briggs said: “With better facilities, the club hope to be able to attract better players to improve the club’s player pool and help progress up the divisions.”